Where should a three plate mirror go?

These mirrors were historically designed to hang above a fireplace mantelpiece, where their length could balance the horizontal proportions of the hearth. They also work well along long drawing room walls or above large sideboards to bounce natural light deep into the interior space.

How do I spot a Regency mirror?

Regency frames generally favour classical restraint, featuring architectural lines, ball details, reeded columns, and sometimes ebonised slips within the gilt framework. They lean away from the exuberant curves of earlier Rococo designs towards a more structured, symmetrical aesthetic.

Are the mirror plates original?

Older mirrors often retain their original hand-silvered glass, which displays subtle foxing, minor pitting, and wavy distortions that reflect light softly. Replacement glass appears clearer and lacks the characteristic dark spots and historical depth accumulated over centuries.

How do I care for giltwood?

Keep giltwood mirrors away from direct sunlight, damp environments, and sudden temperature fluctuations that can cause the gesso and wood to crack. Dust the surface gently with a soft, dry brush and avoid all chemical cleaning products, which strip the delicate gold leaf.